According to Fabrizio Romano, Raphael Varane, a former defender for Manchester United, is expected to finalize his transfer to Serie A newcomers Como.
After his contract with the Red Devils expired and he played his last game at Wembley in the FA Cup final victory over Manchester City, Varane left Old Trafford without a club.
The World Cup winner had been linked with moves to the Saudi Pro League and the MLS, but it appears that Serie A will be his next home.
The 31-year-old spent three years at United having joined from Spanish giants Real Madrid back in 2021, and won the FA Cup and Carabao Cup during his time in Manchester.
Varane has taken his time before deciding the next chapter in his career, but it now seems a decision has been made and he’s set to join a new club.
Varane will reunite with Cesc Fabregas, his old opponent when he played in La Liga, but this time the relationship between the two is player and coach.
Romano has reported that the former Real Madrid man is set to join Serie A side Como, who are manager by former Chelsea and Arsenal star Cesc Fabregas.
He took to X.com and said:
“Raphael Varane to Como, here we go! Documents ready and set to be signed.
“Former Real Madrid and Man United CB will play in Serie A under Cesc Fabregas as manager.
“Understand Varane will sign two year deal until June 2026 + option until 2027. Exclusive story, confirmed.”
It’s quite the coup for Como to land a player of Varane’s quality and calibre, and he becomes the latest former Premier League star to join the club, with former Liverpool duo Pepe Reina and Alberto Moreno also joining the Serie A outfit this summer.
There’s no doubt that Fabregas will have played a huge part in getting this deal over the line and Varane will bring much needed experience and winning mentality, which will be vital to Como’s chances of staying up next season.
Varane will compete directly for the position with Jay Idzes, a centre-back who just became an Indonesian citizen earlier this year. Last season, Jay Idzes was a mainstay at Como with 30 appearances. He has a contract with Como until June 2027.
Como is expected to surprise in Serie A next season. The team owned by the Indonesian owner has ambitions to reach out. Fabregas also has shares in this club.
Varane has had a decorated career to date winning multiple Champions Leagues with Real Madrid and the World Cup with France, but it’s unlikely the latest chapter in his career will see him add to his trophy haul.